AI Adoption Expected to Surge in Manufacturing, Zebra Study Reveals

The UK manufacturing sector, which accounts for 9.3% of the total economic output and 8.1% of employment, is adopting AI to strengthen cybersecurity programs and boost resilience. Manufacturers are leveraging AI tools like Microsoft Copilot for Security to gain a competitive advantage and enhance cybersecurity defenses. AI can plan and simulate attack scenarios, detect cyber threats, and set up protocols in case of an attack. It also allows teams to quickly address and resolve threats. Manufacturing companies must prioritize cybersecurity, commit to adopting AI across supply lines, and focus investments on cybersecurity to stay competitive and drive growth. The UK manufacturing industry is using AI to reduce costs, improve product quality, and address sustainability and carbon footprint concerns. Tailored solutions like Microsoft Copilot for Security provide guidance to address security challenges [bd4e6529].

The Committee for Economic Development (CED) has provided a plan to capitalize on AI while safeguarding against its risks. The plan includes developing a policy framework for responsible AI use, prioritizing transparency, protecting data privacy, and investing in workforce and literacy. The formation of the Artificial Intelligence Safety and Security Board by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security further highlights the recognition of the importance of AI in national security and the need to address potential threats to vital services. CISOs play a vital role in driving secure AI adoption within organizations and ensuring the benefits of AI are gained without compromising security. Seven AI's recent investment and INE Security's recommendations also demonstrate the growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in the era of AI. The tech sector is focusing on strategies to address vulnerabilities in software development, and the FBI is emphasizing the need for AI training to prevent cyberattacks [ec8950a3] [15288a71] [62edd453] [3e268b5a] [c4840cc8] [f2f717d6] [cf71a1e4] [474a7274] [82f200b2].

In a recent survey, 47% of organizations know about security risks associated with AI-generated code, but 100% of respondents embraced AI-assisted application development. This suggests a potential oversight in balancing innovation and security [3792c8fd]. The webinar 'Securing the Supply Chain and Shifting Left with AI-Powered SCA' discusses securing the next generation of AI-powered applications, unveiling critical cloud security hurdles, and implementing practical strategies for cloud-native environments [3792c8fd].

The global Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cybersecurity market is projected to reach USD 114.30 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 22.53% during the forecast period. The market size was valued at USD 18.36 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow from USD 22.49 billion in 2023 to USD 114.30 billion by 2031. The transformative power of AI tools like ChatGPT and Alphabet's Bard is immense, enabling creativity, improving customer service, and assisting in decision-making. Emerging AI technologies such as Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML) have gained traction in security, threat, and response. The market is driven by the growing demand for security solutions due to increasing privacy concerns, the importance of AI-based cybersecurity solutions in the banking industry, and the frequency and complexity of cyber threats. Companies across industries are rapidly integrating AI into their cybersecurity infrastructure to enhance threat detection and response. AI will enable proactive cybersecurity management, allowing organizations to identify and respond to threats in real-time. AI-powered cybersecurity solutions will be ubiquitous, adopted by organizations of all sizes in every industry. AI will use predictive analytics to anticipate potential cyber threats and create a global threat database for real-time threat intelligence sharing and joint security strategies. The article also mentions recent developments in the AI cybersecurity market, such as Cisco's plans to provide secure hardware systems, Wipro's launch of ai360, NVIDIA's zero-trust cybersecurity platform, and Thoma Bravo's potential acquisition of Darktrace. AI can be a powerful ally in combating cyber threats, but its power must be used responsibly and safely. A collaborative effort from all stakeholders is essential in navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities of AI in cybersecurity [528542f0].

The manufacturing industry is also embracing AI to improve efficiency and safety. According to Deloitte research, manufacturing generates approximately 1800 petabytes of data annually. AI can help manufacturers analyze this data to identify patterns, predict potential hazards, and improve safety. It can also relieve workers of repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on high-value tasks. The increased adoption of AI will require more skilled workers to oversee its implementation. AI can also create operational efficiencies by reducing waste, increasing production capacity, and improving customer relationships. However, manufacturers need to consider data privacy concerns and comply with local data privacy laws and regulations. Overall, AI has the potential to transform the manufacturing process by improving safety, innovation, and efficiencies [af948fca].

Zebra Technologies' 2024 Manufacturing Vision Study reveals that 61% of manufacturers globally anticipate AI-driven growth by 2029, up from 41% in 2024. In the Asia-Pacific region, 68% of manufacturers anticipate AI-driven growth by 2029, up from 46% in 2024. The study also highlights that 92% of global and 87% of APAC respondents prioritize digital transformation, with a focus on enhancing data management and using new technologies to improve visibility and quality in the manufacturing process. However, obstacles such as labor costs and availability, scaling technology solutions, and the convergence of IT/OT pose challenges to digital transformation. Manufacturing leaders are planning to reskill labor, augment workers with AI and other technologies, and implement technology tools such as tablets, mobile computers, and workforce management software. They also prioritize ongoing development, retraining/upskilling, and career path development to attract future talent [6436d799].

CISOs, CIOs, CTOs, and CSOs are positive about the benefits of AI, with 89% seeing it as a positive force. However, 71% of respondents have concerns about cybersecurity and 74% about identity security. Many fear that AI attacks will be less detectable and more effective. IAM solutions are viewed as important in defending against AI-driven attacks. Executives are confident in their understanding of AI and their ability to manage it. Concerns include exposure of company secrets, data drift, and erroneous AI-generated data. Improving security and threat detection is a top priority for organizations. IAM is seen as vital to AI use, ensuring only authorized users can access AI tools. Recommendations include enhancing security infrastructure, collaborating with peers and experts, and educating employees on AI best practices [ff850f6d].